Prominent ears do not affect hearing, but they can affect confidence from childhood into adult life. Otoplasty sets the ears closer to the head and is one of the shorter operations in facial surgery. In this guide New City Clinic explains how it is done.
Who is otoplasty for?
Ears stand out either because the fold in the upper ear has not formed fully or because the bowl of the ear is deep, and often both. The operation can be performed once the ear has reached near adult size, from around six years of age, and at any age afterwards. Adults are frequent candidates. It can be done on one ear or both.
How is it performed?
Through an incision hidden behind the ear, the cartilage is reshaped with permanent stitches to create the missing fold, and where necessary a small amount of cartilage is removed or the ear is set back. In adults it usually takes about an hour to an hour and a half under local anaesthesia with sedation; children have a general anaesthetic. The aim is a natural position, not ears pressed flat against the head.
Results and risks
The result is visible as soon as the dressing is removed, although swelling takes a few weeks to settle. Small differences between the two sides are normal, as they were before surgery. Rarely, an ear partly returns towards its former position and a touch-up is needed. Infection and bleeding are uncommon; increasing pain under the dressing should always be reported promptly.
Otoplasty: cost in Turkey and what is included
The price depends on the technique, the extent of the procedure, the hospital, the length of stay and any procedures planned together, which is why a single figure quoted without an examination or photo assessment is misleading. After a physician has reviewed your case, New City Clinic sends you an itemised written quote. It lists hospital, surgeon and anaesthesia fees, pre-operative tests, medication, any compression garment or support bra, accommodation, airport–hotel–hospital transfers and interpreting separately; flights are not included unless stated. When comparing clinics in Istanbul, look beyond the price: check that the hospital is licensed by the Ministry of Health, what the surgeon specialises in, and how follow-up is handled once you are back home.
Otoplasty with New City Clinic
New City Clinic is an authorised health tourism intermediary registered with the Turkish Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye. When you contact New City Clinic about otoplasty, a physician first reviews your photos and medical information, and you then receive a written treatment plan with an itemised quote. Once you arrive in Istanbul, the New City Clinic team organises your airport welcome, accommodation, hospital appointments and interpreting. Your procedure is performed by a specialist physician at a Ministry of Health approved partner hospital, and follow-up continues after you return home.
Recovery timeline
First days
A head dressing protects the ears; mild soreness, head raised when sleeping.
Day 5–7
Dressing removed; most patients fly home after this check-up.
Weeks 2–6
A soft headband is worn at night so the ears are not bent in sleep.
Month 3
Swelling has gone and the ears have their final position.
Accommodation and transfers
On request, New City Clinic organises your airport–hotel–hospital transfers and your stay at partner hotels close to the hospital. The same can be arranged for a companion; details are set out in writing in your quote.
Aftercare
Medication and check-ups
Take the medication your physician prescribes as directed and attend your planned check-ups.
Smoking and alcohol
Both slow healing; avoid them before and after the procedure for the period your physician advises.
Movement and rest
Short walks support circulation; wait for your physician’s approval before strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
When to get in touch
Contact your New City Clinic coordinator straight away in case of high fever, increasing pain, redness or anything unexpected.
Frequently asked questions
From what age can otoplasty be done?
From about six years of age, when the ear is close to adult size. There is no upper age limit.
Will the ears look unnatural?
A careful correction leaves a natural fold and a small distance from the head. Over-correction is what looks artificial, and it is avoided.
When can I wash my hair?
Usually a day or two after the dressing is removed, gently, following the instructions you are given.
Deciding on otoplasty is a confident step when it is taken with the right information and the right team. You can book a free consultation with the New City Clinic team for your questions.
This article is for general information; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
